Discussions led by a STEM professional

Austin Public Library is taking learning to the outer limits.

The library will host “Pushing the Limits: Making Sense of Science,” a four-part reading, viewing and discussion series for adults in communities served by rural libraries. The library received a $2,500 grant from the National Science Foundation and is one of 75 rural public libraries nationwide receiving grants to host the series.

The program will explore ideas in discussions led by a STEM professional (science, technology, engineering, math) using a blended science café and book club model that will include feature film quality videos and a recommended (popular) book reading. The overarching theme is one of real people, real stories and real science.

“We’re pretty excited,” said Ann Hokanson, executive director of the Austin Public Library.

The national program is the work of a unique team of library professionals, scientists, and filmmakers from Dartmouth College, The Association for Rural and Small Libraries, The Califa Group (a California-based library consortium), Dawson Media Group, and Oregon State University– with generous funding from the National Science Foundation.

The Austin Public Library Pushing the Limits programs will begin March 24, 2014, and will be  held each month for four consecutive months at 6:30 pm at the library. Larry Dolphin, Director of the Nature Center will lead the first discussion.

For registration or information visit www.austinpubliclibrary.org or call 507-433-2391. All programs are free admission.